Date: Sat, 5 Jul 2014 12:10:06 -0700
From: bryan wilson
Subject: betting-on-love-and-life-26
This story is a work of fiction involving sex between consenting adult
males. If this disturbs you then leave now. I have no knowledge of the
sexual identity of anyone mentioned in this story, including any
celebrities. This is my original story, please do not copy duplicate or
repost anywhere without my express written permission. This is my first
attempt at writing all comments are welcome and will be answered.
wilson81abc@yahoo.com
I want to thank Jeansguy and Mark for all their hard work proofreading and
editing for me.
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End of Part 25:
I could see the pain in Sean's face that Jack would not go to him when we
got into the car. I placed my hand on his leg and smiled at him. Dad leaned
over and whispered something to Sean. I could not hear what he was saying
but watched as Sean nodded his head and then looked up at Dad and
smiled. Damn, Dad always knows what to say at the right time.
Kyle turned in the front seat and gave me the look that he needed to talk,
I tried to get Jack to slide over on Sean's lap but he would not loosen his
grip. I finally decided to hell with it and moved to the other seat so I
could talk with Kyle.
" What's wrong now? " I asked, with a bit of anger in my voice.
" Sorry sir, " I knew this was trouble, only time Kyle used the sir
business. " There is a scene developing at the funeral home. "
=========
Part 26
I turned so Jack was as far away from Kyle as I could get him, " Damn it
Kyle, just tell me what is wrong. "
" Sorry Jerry. " Kyle leaned a little farther over the seat. " It seems a
large number of your A list friends have shown up at the funeral home and
there seems to be a parking problem. "
I lowered my voice as much as I could so Sean would not hear. " Damn it. I
want you to put up the window, then call Kim and ask her to get a squad
over there and get that traffic moved. I will pay them as private duty
security, this day is about Sean and Jack not me. I will not have these
'friends' of mine screwing this up. "
" Right away, Jerry. " Kyle turned around and put the window up and I moved
myself and Jack back to out seat.
" What's wrong Jerry? " Sean asked, with more concern in his eye than I
liked.
" Just a little traffic problem that I hope to have cleared up soon. " I
smiled at Sean, trying to reassure him.
I sat there holding Jack and started thinking about all that we had been
through the last few weeks and as I sat there I started humming to Jack. I
felt Sean move in his seat and then a whisper as he talked with Dad. There
was a pause and I knew Dad was thinking about what to say. He cleared his
throat and was about to whisper back to Sean.
" Not now Dad. "
There was silence again as Dad stopped what he was going to say to Sean,
then Sean turned back towards me and placed his hand on my leg and gave it
a squeeze. We continued the ride in silence as I was in no mood to talk
and I knew Sean was deep in thought. I was more worried about Jack as he
continued to hold onto me and not loosen his grip. I held Jack and
continued humming as I stroked his hair and wondered what was going through
that mind of his. I said a silent prayer that Kim had managed to clear up
the little problem with the traffic before we arrived, I did not need Sean
to think I turned this into an event to benefit me in any way. The car
slowed as we approached the funeral home and I opened my eyes and let out a
sigh as the street was clear and traffic was flowing quickly. I turned and
looked at Sean, he had his head lowered and I reached for his hand.
The car stopped as a patrolman approached the driver's window, I heard Josh
raising his voice. The patrolman was pointing down the street, wanting Josh
to move the limo out of the way. I tensed up and knew that this was not
going to go well, for us or Josh, if the patrolman keep pushing him.
" Dad, can you please roll down the window? " I asked.
" No, Jerry. I will handle this. " Sean spoke up, determined to handle this
himself. It caught me a bit off guard, but I smiled.
" All yours Sean. " I nodded towards the door.
Sean leaned past Dad and opened the door and climbed out to speak to the
patrolman. I was almost holding my breath that Sean kept calm and if need
be used Kim's name to get this handled.
" Excuse me, " Sean leaned down and looked at his name tag, " Office
Jenkins, we need this car at the front door and we need it handled now. "
Sean stood a little taller with his chest puffed a little as he found a bit
of authority in his voice.
" I'm sorry sir, but I was told to have all traffic moved off this street,
so you will have to continue down and park at the lot on the corner. "
Office Jenkins said trying to dismiss Sean.
" Well, I do not really care what you were told, I will not park down the
street for my sisters funeral. You will move those traffic cones and have
this car at the front door in the next 60 seconds, or I will have to call
Chief Jacobs and have her deal with you herself. " Sean stood there in a
more defiant stature.
Officer Jenkins looked like someone had hit him with a baseball bat as he
tried to recover from Sean's dominant appearance. " Right away Sir, there
is no reason to bother Chief Jacobs. " He quickly walked over to the cones
and started moving them as Sean walked back to the car and slide back in,
as I moved over to allow him a little easier entry.
" I can see why you like what you do Jerry. " Sean smiled at me.
" Just be careful Sean, it can go to your head. Then you start down a bad
road that is difficult to stop. "
Sean sat there contemplating my words as we pulled up in from of the
funeral home, I had to nudge him with my elbow to get his attention.
" Sean, before we go in, please pay no attention to all the people
inside. I will arrange for you and Jack to have a private visit, then Dad
can take Jack to your house before you accept the guests. "
Sean shook his head, trying to steady himself and gather his courage up to
walk inside. Kyle got out of the front seat and opened the door for us, I
wiggled out with Jack still attached tightly around my neck. I stood and
waited as Sean slid across the seat and stepped out, I leaned close to him
and whispered, " Strong and calm. " I grabbed his hand and led him inside.
As we walked inside we were met by Mr. Hart and I pulled him aside to ask
if he could keep the room closed while Sean and Jack had a few minutes with
Mary.
" That will be no problem Mr. Martin, the room is always kept closed until
the family has a chance for a private viewing. Right this way please. "
We walked into the room and Mr. Hart turned and walked back out to give us
time for a personal family visit. I put my hand on Sean's shoulder, " Take
your time Sean. "
Sean nodded and was fighting to keep himself in control as he slowly walked
toward Mary, losing control as the tears were rolling down his beautiful
face. My heart broke as I watched the pain overtake Sean. Jack tightened
his grip around my neck, " Jack, do you want to leave? "
Jack shook his head against my chest as he started sobbing, I knew then he
could not handle saying goodbye to his mother. I nudged Dad and tilted my
head towards the door for him to open it and follow me.
" Jack needs to get out of here Dad, can you sit with him in the car until
I let Sean know? "
" Sure Son, I would love to help my little bud. " Dad said as he rubbed
Jack's back and headed toward the front door.
As I passed Kyle I stopped, " Can you step in there with Sean and tell him
I will be back in as soon as I get Dad and Jack in the car? "
" Sure, Jerry. " Kyle headed into the room with Sean.
We walked out to the car and Dad got into the back and I ran my hand over
Jack's head. " Can you take a ride to your house with my Dad, Little Man? "
Jack nodded his head and for the first time lifted his head off my
chest. The red eyes and tears on his cheek said more than any words the boy
could speak.
" When you get to your house, find a Miss Jackson. She is the caterer and
ask her if she has any thing for you to do Little Man. "
" Okay Jerry. " Jack quietly said, but a little light came back to his
eyes. The prospect of working in the kitchen sparked his interest.
" I need you to slide in the car with Richard and he can hold you on the
ride to your house. "
Jack almost jumped out of my arms and into the car sitting with Dad like he
belonged there. " I will be right back guys, I need to let Sean know what
is going on before you leave. "
I headed back inside and walked to the door leading to the room where Mary
lay, waiting for us to pay our last respects. As I opened the door Kyle was
standing just inside, I nodded at him and he stepped back out of the
room. I walked up to Sean as he stood next to the casket, staring down at
Mary.
" Why Mary, why did you have to leave me now? " I could hear the sobs as
Sean continued on talking. " I need you now more than ever Sis, I don't
know if I can do this without you. Who will I talk my problems out with
now? You have left me with no one to listen to me and Little Man to raise
on my own. "
The words stopped me in my tracks, ' no one to listen to him '? That is all
I have been doing for weeks, does he thinks I am going to stop?
I stepped up behind him and cleared my throat, to let him know I was
there. " I need to talk to you a minute Sean. "
Sean turned around, staring at the floor as the tears continued running
down his face. " Sean, I had to send Jack out to the car with my Dad. He
could not handle seeing his Mom like that and I did not want to push him
into doing it. I told them they could head over to your house and help the
caterer until we were finished, but I wanted you to know before they left
and to get your permission. "
Sean slowly lifted his head up to look at me. " You're probably right
Jerry, send them on to the house. " Sean started to turn back towards the
casket.
I grabbed his arm and stopped him from turning away from me. " Sean, I know
this is not easy, but you do know that I am here for you. Don't you? " I
asked in a very uneasy tone, not sure that I wanted to know the answer.
Sean looked at me, his eyes showing the distance he was feeling at the
moment. Lost and scared, I knew he did not know what he said and a bit of
relief washed over me. I stepped up to him and pulled him down and wrapped
my arms around him, trying to take away some of the pain he was feeling.
" Let it out Sean, I'm here for you Babe. " I said to Sean as I let my hand
slide down the back of his head to his shoulders.
Sean continued to sob in my arms and the tears flowing from his face were
soaking through the shoulder of my jacket.
After a few minutes, Sean began to regain some control and slowly lifted
his head off my shoulder. " Oh shit Jerry, I'm sorry. I ruined your suit. "
Sean's face had a look of horror on it.
" Don't worry about it Sean, it is just a suit, easily replaced. " I leaned
in and placed a gentle kiss on his lips. " Unlike you my friend. " I smiled
at Sean. " Now go out and let Kyle know that Dad and Jack can head out. " I
turned Sean and pushed his toward the door.
Sean slowly walked out the door as I turned and walked up towards Mary. "
Mary, I know you are here to watch over Jack and Sean. Please help Sean
understand that I'm here if he needs me, look into my heart and see that I
would never hurt them. " I reached down and touched Mary's hand as the
tears started flowing down my face.
Outside Sean had spoken with Jack and Dad and they had pulled away, Sean
felt a breeze and stood up straight and looked around. He felt a sudden
warmth inside, yet a feeling that something was not right. As he made his
way back inside his heart started beating faster, the need to be near Jerry
overcoming him. He pushed himself faster back to find Jerry, he opened the
door and saw Jerry knelt beside Mary's casket.
" Please Mary, show Sean that I would never hurt him. I could not care less
if I lost everything I had, as long as he was there with me. "
Sean walked up behind Jerry and the emotions to protect and comfort him
almost overwhelmed him and he reach down and almost effortlessly pulled
Jerry up.
" She has done just that Jerry, I know in my heart that you would never
hurt me or Jack. I want to be beside you as long as you will have me. "
Sean leaned down and kissed Jerry with all the passion he could bring
together within him.
I stared at Sean, " Sean, I have to say it and say it out loud. I love you
and I never want to be apart! "
" I love you Jerry, and can't think of a better way to spend all my time
than with you. I think we need to set that aside for now though, we have a
group of friends waiting on us.
" Sean shook his head towards the door and the outer rooms.
" You are right Mr. Austin, but tonight you are all mine. " I smiled and
gave Sean a kiss that curled my toes.
Holding hands we walked back to the doors and opened them and went back to
take our place next to Mary. Visitors started coming in one after the
other, shaking Sean's hand and passing on their sympathies. Sean told me
several times that he thought everyone that ever lived in his neighborhood
had come through the line. Many times he would stop as someone stepped away
and ask is that who I think it is, and I would have to laugh and shake my
head. Sean was still not able to comprehend the people who I knew around
the world and their presence was making him nervous.
After close to two hours of receiving friends I noticed that Sean was
getting tired, as the stress of the day was taking over his handsome
face. As the next visitor stepped up to Sean I noticed his expression
change, first a deep look of concern, then a smile broke out on his
face. He grabbed the man in front of him, " Brent! How the hell ya doing? "
Sean asked as he hugged him.
" I'm good Sean, I'm really sorry about Mary. " Brent answered as the
sorrow he was holding showed across his face.
" Thanks Brent, I'm really going to miss her. " Sean got a tear in his eye.
" Where is Little Man at? " Brent asked.
" He is at the house, he couldn't handle seeing Mary so I sent him home
till this was over. "
" Who the hell is watching him, Sean? Everyone we both know is here. "
Brent asked with a little too much concern in his voice.
" He is fine Brent. This is Jerry Martin, his father is watching Jack until
we get back to the house. "
" It's a pleasure to meet you Brent. " I stuck my hand out to shake.
Brent looked at my outstretched hand then up to my face. " Who the hell is
this, Sean? "
" He is a close friend of mine, Brent and I trust him with my life and
more. Now shake the man's hand and we will discuss this at the house. "
Sean was getting mad as he stood there staring at Brent.
" Fine, " was Brent's response as he grabbed my hand and shook, squeezing a
little harder than normal trying to intimidate me.
Brent walked off looking back at me trying to size me up. I noticed Kyle
approaching him and I held up my hand to wave him off. Brent looked up as
Kyle approached and bumped into his shoulder as they passed. I was hoping
that there was nothing behind the indifference that Brent was showing. Sean
noticed the attention I was showing Brent as he walked away.
" He isn't really that bad, Jerry. I think he just had a crush on Mary and
having a hard time with this. "
Just from his stance and reaction to me I knew there was more, but not
quite sure which of the two options it was. " I'm sure you're right Sean. "
I returned my attention to Sean as he continued greeting friends.
I continued to keep an eye on Brent as the line in front of Sean continued
to move and we neared the end. Brent was watching me every time I looked
over as he moved around the room. I was not thinking about my hand as I
watched Brent, until he had moved around the room to where he could see
more of our backs. When I looked back at Brent, his face had frozen and his
mouth was open, his eyes turned from shock to anger. I knew that Brent was
going to cause a scene and I did not want Sean to have to deal with his
friend at the moment.
I touched Sean's shoulder and leaned over to whisper to him. " I think we
have a problem with Brent and I don't think you want to have a scene right
here. It might be wise to take him aside and deal with him now, or I can
handle it if you like. "
Sean had a shocked look on his face when I said that, like he thought I
would have Brent killed right there in the middle of the funeral home.
" I don't know what to say to him Jerry. " Sean got a worried look on his
face.
" Tell him the basics Sean, we met in Vegas and we became friends and I am
helping you with everything until the estate is settled. Then if you want,
in a few days meet with him and let him know as much as you want him to
know. "
Sean nodded his head and excused himself and went to pull Brent away to
have a talk in private. I stood and continued greeting friends while Sean
was busy dealing with Brent. The line started getting thinner and soon
there were no more people to greet, I made apologizes for Sean as I talked
with each person. Just as I was about to go searching for Sean he and Brent
came back in the room with their arms over each others shoulders. I was
glad to see whatever Sean had told Brent had gone over well and they seemed
to be the friends they had always been.
I walked over to the two of them, " I think we are about ready to finish
the service Sean. "
Sean's smile immediately turned to a frown as he was brought back to the
reality of why we were there. Sean nodded as I took his arm and led him
over to the family chair they had placed in the front row. As I got Sean
seated Brent pushed his way in and sat next to Sean, starting my blood
boiling, but I took a deep breath and moved to the row behind Sean and took
a seat.
I sat there fuming, one for letting Brent push his way in and two for Sean
not telling him to step back. Brent had put his arm around Sean's shoulder
and he kept his head down, the priest the funeral home had brought in
stepped in front of the room and began to speak.
Kyle took a seat next to me and I leaned over to whisper to him, " I want a
full report on a Brent Stein, " I pointed at the man sitting next to Sean,
" ready as soon as we leave here. "
Kyle nodded and slipped out of the room. I noticed that Brent had leaned
over and was talking to Sean and looking back at me, with a smug look on
his face. Sean kept shaking his head as Brent talked, I could see from my
angle that Sean's face was getting red. I knew that whatever Brent was
saying to him was upsetting him, causing his anger to well up inside.
Brent started to get a little louder as he talked to Sean, still not enough
to catch all that was being said, but loud enough to know they were
talking. That was until I caught the words, 'he's a fairy' coming from
Brent. That pushed my anger level up to where I had to finally open my
mouth. " Is there a problem? " I asked as I stood up and leaned in for them
to hear me.
" Nothing that you need to worry about, so sit down and leave Sean alone. "
Brent growled out with hatred in his voice.
I was about to give it to Brent with both barrels when Sean stopped me dead
in my tracks. " Brent, I think you need to leave. Jerry has all the right
in the world to worry about me. " I could see the worry in Sean's eyes as
he knew that Brent was not going to take this well.
" And why the hell is that, Sean? " Brent was getting red now.
I needed to end this before it got out of hand, " This is not the time of
place for this gentlemen, you can have a discussion when we get back to
Sean's house. "
Sean and Brent both nodded their heads and turned and focused their
attention on Father O'Neil. Brent sat there listening to the Father, but
kept glancing back at me. It was during one stare down I saw what it was
that was upsetting Brent, this was not going to be easy on Sean. Brent kept
himself quiet through the rest of the Father's prayers and words, but
anyone who looked at him knew it was taking everything he had to do it.
" Does anyone have anything they would like to say about Mary? " Father
O'Neil asked. The room sat quiet, as Sean looked around waiting for
someone to be kind enough to step up and say a word about his sister. Sean
started fidgeting more as his hopes started to drift away for someone to
speak.
I stood up and walked to the front of the room, I smiled over at Sean. "
Ladies and Gentlemen, I would first like to thank each and everyone of you
for coming out today and helping us remember the life of Mary Austin. I did
not know Mary for long, we had only met recently in Las Vegas. From the
moment I met her she was charming and friendly, and her thoughts were
always about others. She worried for the safety and happiness of Jack and
Sean, even as she knew the end was near, they were her concern. We sat and
talked the last few nights she was with us, she had an insight to life that
many do not have. She talked about her mother and father and the struggles
that her and Sean had to endure. Even through all the hard times the the
Austins had to go through, Mary came out of it with a smile on her face and
a warmth in her heart for anyone that crossed her path. She was direct with
her questions, but being a mother and ill, she had little time to 'beat
around the bush'. I have known many a strong person on this world, have
met leaders of nations and corporations that could have learned some
valuable lessons from Mary. I include myself in those, in the few close
days we had together she taught me to remember the love of a family. A
family no matter how it is made up, blood relative or not, as long as the
love they share is shared unconditional. I will miss the chance to know
Mary better and for her to have the time to see her son grow to be the man
she hoped he becomes, and her brother to find his calling in life and
fulfill those dreams. I want to close by reminding each and everyone of you
to cherish those you love, make each day with them a moment that you will
always remember. "
When I finished, I headed towards my seat as Father O'Neil led us in a
final prayer and asked everyone to pay their final respects. Brent had once
again put his arm around Sean's shoulder as the tears started falling from
his eyes. The crowd made their way up for a final viewing and then exited
the room, in time leaving just Brent, Sean and I in the room. I walked up
to the casket and placed my hands on Mary's. " Please watch over us Mary,
we will need your strength even now. " I kissed her forehead and moved away
for Sean to step up. Brent stood behind him as he leaned down and whispered
something to Mary, he kissed her forehead and stood and looked at me. Sean
fell into my arms and I wrapped them around him as he broke down and
cried. I stroked his hair and just held him tight.
" She is here with us Sean, I think she wanted to make sure you were
alright. You know, being big Sis. " I kissed his cheek as I pulled back to
wipe the tears from his eyes.
" I know she is Jerry, I have felt her since we walked in the door. I think
she is having as hard a time as me letting go. "
" Let's get out to the car Sean, we don't want to keep them waiting too
long. " In the sorrow of the moment, I lost myself and leaned in and kissed
Sean.
" What the hell are you doing to him, you damn fairy? " Brent rushed at me
and pushed me away from Sean, knocking me on the floor.
I heard footsteps rushing towards us and I yelled out. " No, Kyle. Leave
him alone. "
Getting up off the floor, Sean stood there with his mouth open and Brent
started on me again. " What's the matter, queer man need a bodyguard? "
Brent stood there laughing as I stepping up in front of him, " Brent, I
have given you the benefit of the doubt because you are Sean's friend. If
you have a problem with me, I expect you to talk them out like a man. I
will not be used as your personal punching bag ever again. "
" You will be used for whatever I want Mr. Sissypants. I could care less
what you want. Let's get out of here Sean. You need to get away from him
before he corrupts you anymore. " Brent started to move towards the door.
Sean was frozen where he stood, looking at me then at Brent. My eyes
started to water as I waited for Sean to make a decision. Time seemed to
stop as did my breathing when he started walking and just as he was about
to pass by me and my heart was stopping, he did also.
" Brent, I think it's time you leave. I won't have you treating or talking
to Jerry that way. " Sean calmly told Brent.
" You have got to be kidding me, Sean. " Brent stepped up in front of
Sean. " What in God's name has this freak done to you? "
" I am asking you politely, one last time, Brent. Either apologize to
Jerry, or leave now. "
" You don't mean that Sean, we have been friends forever. How can you just
throw that all aside? "
I'm not Brent, I wanted to have this talk in private, but you seem to want
to have it out in front of everyone. And at Mary's funeral, can you not
show some respect for her? She loved you just as much as she did me and
Jack. "
Brent looked at Sean as his eyes became wet, " Damn it Sean, you know I
love you and loved her just as much. I can control myself, but when we are
back home we have to talk. "
" That's all I ask Bro. " Sean added with a love for Brent that I saw shine
through his smile.
Brent turned to me, with his back to Sean. " Jerry, I'm sorry about what I
have said and done. This was no place to open my mouth and push you around
like that. " His words were apologetic, but the look on his face was far
from it.
" Thanks, Brent. I know that was not easy and I appreciate the fact, but my
statement still goes. I will not ever be used for a punching bag by
anyone. " I looked at Brent, but could not show the contempt I felt for him
as Sean was looking at me.
" It won't happen again, Jerry. Now can you call off the bodyguard? And why
the hell do you need a bodyguard anyways? " Brent asked, finally realizing
that Kyle was just that, my bodyguard.
" That is a story for another time Brent, for right now we have other
pressing matters. "
I moved around Brent and grabbed Sean's hand and led him out of the room
and towards the front door. Kyle stayed behind at Mr. Hart's request, as
Sean and I were on our way to the car. Once standing outside and as I
opened the car door, Sean put his hand on my shoulder and turned to face
Brent.
" Brent, I would like for you to ride with us to the cemetery. " Sean asked
Brent, trying to smooth the road ahead of him, for when they had their talk
later.
Brent looked at Sean in a bit of surprise. " If you are sure Sean, I would
really like that. " " I'm sure Brent. " Sean entered the car as did Brent
and I stood there waiting on Kyle to come out and join us.
Kyle came walking out, the sorrow showing on his face. He also had a file
in his hand and I knew exactly what it was. " You're fast as always Kyle,
but keep it with you for now, we have a guest with us. "
Kyle bent down and looked in the car and gave me a look of surprise, " Will
do boss. " I got into the back of the limo, Brent was sitting next to Sean
so I climbed into the front seat and sat facing them. Sean sat looking out
the window, his gaze not focused on anything just looking out as he
thought. Brent, on the other hand was staring at me, trying to figure out
who I was and how I fit into Sean's life. I barely noticed the smirk come
across his face, until I noticed that Sean had grabbed his hand. When I
looked back up at Brent he had a smile on his face and he winked at me and
opened his mouth to say something. I shook my head no at him and looked
over at Sean, and noticed the tears running down his face.
I got down on my knees in front of him and placed my hands on his knees, "
Sean, are you alright? "
Sean just shook his head no as he sat there looking out the window. He
didn't even glance down at me once, he was worried about more than
Mary. Sean finally turned and looked at me, " Look Jerry, see for
yourself. "
I knew what he wanted me to do and I dropped my eyes, " No Sean, I won't. "
" Please Jerry, I need you to know. I can't bring myself to say it to
you. " Sean was still staring at me, unwilling to take his eyes off me.
" I know it already Sean, but you will be the one that says it. You can't
take the easy way out of this. Don't worry about it now Sean, you need to
finish this day up and think about Little Man. Mary will be there to help
you, just listen with your heart. " I pushed myself up and back into my
seat and composed myself, as Brent sat there with an even larger smirk on
his damn face. I was really beginning to hate him.
We had finally reached the cemetery and when we pulled up to the grave site
Kyle got out and opened the door. Brent jumped out first as I slowly made
my way out, I stood and waited on Sean to slide over and get out of the
car. Sean sat there not moving, I could see the worry on his face in the
reflection of the window.
" Come on Sean, it will work itself out. I know you can do this, just be
the man that you are.....and the one I fell in love with. " I whispered. I
didn't want to push Sean, I knew what he was battling with and I wanted him
to reach this decision on his own.
We assembled at the graveside and Father O'Neil gave his speak and the
final prayers. Sean stood and approached Mary's casket and pulled one rose
and laid his hand on top of it. " I will miss you more than you know big
sister. " He turned and started towards the car.
I turned and faced the crowd of friends. " If you would all be so kind,
there will be a food and we would much enjoy for you to join us at the
Austin's home. "
I started towards the car to catch up with Sean when Brent walked up next
to me.
" I don't know what the hell you have on him, but I can tell you this,
Mr. Thinks his shit don't stink, Sean is done with you. " Brent grabbed my
arm to stop me from continuing on walking to the car.
I'm usually not a violent man, but I was quickly pushed to that point. "
Mr. Stein, I do not know you and personally at this point in time don't
care to, but if you ever touch me again, they will be taking you to the
hospital in an ambulance. "
" You and who else? Your bodyguard? " Brent shot that damn smirk at me
again.
" Brent, if you truly care for Sean, try and be a decent human being and
don't start something today. He just buried his sister, his last remaining
family member from his childhood. He needs all the support he can get right
now, not some who is going to play with his emotions. " I headed for the
car, I was done talking with this damn fool.
I was bent down to enter the car when I heard Kyle's voice. " That would
not be a wise move Mr. Stein. " I turned and Kyle had Brent's arm held
firmly in his hand.
" I guess I can see what kind of friend you really are Brent. You couldn't
let this go for an hour until Sean could speak with you in private. "
" Well, if your wanna be cop here wouldn't have stopped me you wouldn't be
seeing anything. " Brent snarled at me.
I ignored him and entered the back of the car, I was not going to allow him
to drag me down to his level of stupidity. I had taken my seat facing the
rear of the car so I could watch Brent and keep an eye on Sean, who seemed
to have collapsed in on himself and was not aware of anything.
Brent finally entered the car and sat down next to Sean, but not as close
as he had on the way to the cemetery. I was beginning to question what game
he was playing, and how far he was willing to go. The thought of him
playing with Sean's emotions right now was bringing me closer and closer to
a physical confrontation with Brent.
There was a tap on my shoulder and I reluctantly turned to look at Kyle. "
Everything is set and ready at the Austin's house, Jerry. "
" Thanks, Kyle. " I replied short and turned back to face Brent.
" You just think you are hot shit don't you Jerry? " Brent started again.
" Not at all Brent, I just like to keep on top of things in my life. " I
shot an answer back without even looking his way keeping my attention on
Sean.
" Here I thought you were a bottom. " Brent laughed to himself.
" Brent, I have put up with your disrespect and crass mouth out of respect
for Sean. I am telling you now, one more insulting word from you and you
can walk back home. " I was definitely pissed but never let my eyes leave
Sean.
" Calm down Jerry, I thought you fags were suppose to be a happy people. "
Brent threw his head back laughing.
" Kyle, Stop this damn car! Brent has decided he wants to walk the rest of
the way. "
Brent looked up at me like I had lost my mind. " You have got to be kidding
me! "
" I'm most definitely not, I told you one more disrespectful remark and you
were walking. "
" Just what gives you the idea that you can throw me out of Sean's car? "
Brent asked, confident in his question.
" Mostly because if I make a decision, Sean will support it and I think you
have worn out your welcome in 'his' car. "
" Sean will not allow you to throw me out of this car, no matter what
decision you made. So just sit back there and try not to crush your
'wings'. "
The car came to a stop and I looked over at Brent. " I think this is your
stop, Brent. "
" Like hell it is Jerry. " Brent turned to Sean, " Hey Buddy, you gonna let
Mr. queer over there throw me out of your car? " Brent asked Sean, almost
pleading.
Sean sat there and never answered him, I don't think he heard a word that
had been said since we got in the car. Brent reached over and grabbed
Sean's arm. " Dude, did you hear me? " He started shaking Sean.
" What? I'm sorry Brent I was lost there. What did ya want? "
" I need you to tell the queer over there that he is not throwing me out of
your car. " Brent said with a bit more confidence now that Sean was
talking.
Sean looked over at me with a bit of a shocked look on his face, " Is that
why we are stopped Jerry? "
I took a deep breath, hoping that Sean would listen to what I was going to
say. " Yes it is Sean, I asked Brent to quit using inappropriate language
towards me and he figures that he can continue. I know he is your friend
and I have given him the benefit of the doubt, but I can only take so much
and he crossed that line long ago. "
Sean stared at me for a moment then turned towards Brent. " Are you out of
your mind, Brent? I told you that Jerry was my friend and asked you to
respect him, and you can't do that for me? "
" Damn it Sean, just throw this puffer out and let's get home. You don't
need him making decisions for you. "
Sean just looked at Brent, deciding on his next move. " I can't do that
Brent, I just can't do that. "
" Why not Sean? I have never known you to need anyone, let alone someone
like him. " Brent growled as he pointed at me.
" For one, this is his car Brent, not mine. " Sean stopped, not wanting to
go any further, but I knew Brent was going to push this issue.
" What have you gotten yourself involved in Sean? Did he buy you or
something? "
Sean's head snapped up and he looked at Brent, " I have gotten myself into
something special Brent, and Jerry would never stoop to buying someone. "
" What are you trying to tell me, Sean? Don't even tell me that you are
'involved' with this queer. " Brent was getting more aggressive as he sat
there.
" Can we not wait to have this talk Brent? I would at least like to get
through the arrangements at the house. " Sean was trying his best to hold
off this conversation with Brent.
" If you can promise me that we will talk Sean, I don't think I like the
way things in your life are headed. " Brent glared at me, making his point
that he thought I was corrupting Sean.
" I promise Brent, I just want to get home and thank all our friends for
coming and see Little Man. I'm just hoping that he is doing alright. "
" Okay man, I can handle that, but can't you ask him to sit up front? "
Brent nodded towards me.
" Damn it Brent, give it a rest. Jerry has give you a second chance, I
think you better take it. " Sean was being pushed towards and ending he did
not want, but one he was ready to accept.
" Dude, you seem to forget, I don't want a damn thing from him and will
accept nothing. Well, maybe an invite to his funeral. "
Sean turned red and I could see the anger in his face. " That's it Brent,
I'm done with you. Get the hell out of this car now. "
" What the hell are you doing Sean? "
" I'm sorry Brent, but I will not have you talking to Jerry that way
anymore. I owe him more than you could ever know or understand and since
you seem to resist having this conversation later we'll have it now. I love
him Brent, he has done more for me in a few weeks than anyone has done for
me my whole life. If it were not for him I truly believe that I would be
dead and Jack would be taken from us. I will not and I can't stress this
enough to you, Brent, have you speaking to him in any way but with
respect. Now if you can't do that for me, then I think it is time for you
to get the hell out and we can call it quits now. "
" I don't know what to say Sean, I can't believe you are telling me this
now. How damn long have you been this way? "
" I'm not getting into this with you now Brent, but I want a sincere
apology to Jerry and if not I am going to drag your ass out of this car and
beat you till you do. "
" Okay Sean, chill. " Brent lowered his head, " Jerry, I really am sorry
for the way I have been talking to you. If Sean says you're cool, I will
accept that. " Brent finished without ever looking at me.
I was about to reply to Brent when Sean spoke. " Thank you Brent, if you
are honest about that apology and Jerry finds it in his heart to forgive
you, you won't regret it. "
Sean and Brent sat looking at me, I was having a hard time deciding whether
to accept Brent's apology or not. I knew what he was thinking, but trying
to find a way to sound sincere and not give away anything with such a crude
person like Brent was difficult.
" Brent, if Sean can forgive you, I trust his judgment and I guess I can
accept your apology, Again. " I said a bit sarcastically. " I do not think
there will be a third time. So please pick your words carefully when you
talk with me is all I ask. "
" Thanks Jerry, I'm not really an ass. Just having a bit of trouble taking
this all in, I've known Sean for so long that it's a bit of a shock. "
" I understand, Brent. Just realize that no matter what he has to say, he
is still Sean. If you want to make it a change in who he is, that is your
problem and not his. "
" I think I know what you are saying Jerry, Thanks. "
We sat quietly the rest of the ride back to Sean's house. I watched as
Brent sat there, never changing his composure, which made my decision even
that much more certain. Brent would not change or accept Sean, if Sean
continued a relationship with me. I could see that this day, even with the
heaviness of the sadness already hanging over it would not end well. It was
weighing heavy on me, as I felt a tear roll down my face. Sean looked over
at me with a questioning look on his face, I just shook my head at him and
turned to face the front of the car, " Did you get what I asked for, Kyle?
"
" Yes sir, did you want it now? " He asked with a deep concern in his
voice.
" I'm sure Kyle. " I replied, even though I wasn't.
Kyle handed me the file and I sat there reading through all the pages, not
surprised with what it contained. I knew what type of person that Brent
was, just by the way he talked and held himself in a room. That which
surprised me the most, he had 3 children, all with different women. That
did not surprise me, but the fact he refused to acknowledge them or support
them was a bit of a shock. Now I had to decide if I could let Sean head
down the path I knew he was going to take. I did promise Mary to watch him
and help him raise Jack. Damn it, why couldn't I just turn and walk away?
Why did I have to do this to myself, I should have learned my lesson with
Brad. I should have become the shut in and lived my life without the worry
or hurt.
I handed the file back over the seat to Kyle, " Thanks, Kyle. Excellent
work as always. I think we can go ahead with the plan I laid out earlier. "
Kyle stared at me a moment, " I will have the details sent out and
implemented as soon as possible Sir. "
" Cut the Sir, crap Kyle. I don't think that Brent wants to hear it and
could care less what you call me. " I nodded at Brent.
" No problem Jerry. " Kyle leaned back and whispered in my ear. " You
alright, Jerry? "
I shook my head no and Kyle turned and left it at that. The car pulled up
in front of Sean's house and Kyle jumped out and opened the door for
us. Once outside the car we headed into the house, Brent grabbed Sean
around the shoulder and walked in with him. I pulled Kyle back as Sean and
Brent headed into the house. I briefed Kyle on what I wanted, he just
stared at me. " Are you sure, Jerry? "
" Yes, Kyle. I don't want to, but it is headed that way, and I don't need a
confrontation here today. " I walked into the house, feeling the defeat
that I knew was coming. Even if no one else could see it on the horizon.
The house was filled with all of the people that Sean knew from the
neighborhood, his coworkers from his job and others he has gathered through
his life. I made my rounds through the house talking with each person and
listened to stories about Sean and Mary that neighbors were telling. I
laughed at most and stored many away for thought later. I had soon realized
that Sean and Brent were not anywhere to be seen, I wondered if they had
started their talk or they had make a retreat somewhere I did not what to
think about.
I found Dad and Jack in the kitchen, working hard helping the caterers to
keep the food flowing out to the guests.
I walked up and picked Jack up and wrapped my arms around him and hugged
him tight. " How ya doing Little Man? " I asked and had to stop myself
after I spoke. Almost losing it right there in the kitchen.
" I had fun Uncle Jerry. Miss Jackson let me help her all day, she can
really cook. "
" Did you learn how she made everything Jack? "
" I did, and she even let me help cook some of the food. " Jack was smiling
so big, it was like you could be drawn inside his child like qualities and
spend the day.
" Then I guess we know who will be cooking dinner for us from now on. " I
tickled Jack.
" I not think so Uncle Jerry. I can't cook all by myself. Mom said to stay
away from that stove. " Jack pointed towards the stove top and frowned.
" She is right Little Man, that can really hurt you. Always make sure an
adult helps you around the stove. " I put Jack down and let him return to
helping Miss Jackson.
I turned to head back out into the living room when Dad grabbed my
shoulder. " What's wrong Son? "
" Nothing Dad, it's just been a long day and unfortunately it is not
over. " I took a step to continue on and Dad did not release his grip.
" Would you like to tell me the truth now, Son? " Dad asked in his best
fatherly tone.
I spun on my heels and looked at Dad, " Can you just drop it now Dad, we
can discuss this later at the house. I'm not ready to talk right now. " I
said it with a bit more anger than I intended, but out it came before I
could stop myself.
" Okay, Jerry. If you're sure, just remember, I am here for you. " Dad let
go of my shoulder and turned to step back in the kitchen with Jack.
Damn it, there I go hurting the one person who has always been there to
help me. I stepped out on the front porch of the house, a chance to clear
my head and get a breath of fresh air. Standing on the porch, I took in the
charms of the neighborhood that Sean had grown up in, tough but
friendly. Only charm that one could appreciate from growing up in the area,
but fleeting from the casual observer. It really wasn't that much different
from my own childhood neighborhood, children playing, friends gathering,
homes full of love. While looking around I heard them coming down the
upstairs steps inside the house, Brent's voice plainly heard above the
voices of the others in the house. I steadied myself as the front door
opened and they came out on the porch, and that which I did not want to
face was there.
" Jerry, can I talk to you for a minute? " Sean asked in a timid voice.
Without turning around I answered Sean, " Sure Sean, what do you need? "
" Well,... " Sean was silent for a moment. " I don't know what to say
Jerry, or how to say it. " Sean stopped again, I could feel he wanted me to
take over the conversation.
" It's no problem Sean, it is handled. " Just then one of the cars from the
house pulled up and Mitchell got out of the back seat and opened the trunk.
" How Jerry? How did you know? " Sean asked, barely loud enough for me to
even hear.
Still not able to turn and look at Sean, " You forget Sean, this is not my
first time around the block. I knew what Brent wanted and I knew you could
not say no to him. Not today anyways, maybe if it was not today you could
have, but you were too vulnerable today. "
" I'm sorry Jerry, I know that I should never have let you get so involved
in my life. Until I had my own life settled, it is my fault and I'm really
sorry for the pain I have caused you. "
" I will have Stanley contact you to finish up the details of the estate
and to get everything else settled Sean. " I wanted to move this away from
me and let Sean focus on other issues.
" You do not have to do that Jerry. I can not have you doing anything else
for me, not after this, not when I ..." Sean stopped and became quiet.
" Damn it Sean, just tell him to get the hell out of here and never come
back. What the hell is wrong with you? " Brent was showing his lack of
patience for Sean's decision.
" I can't Brent, I just can't..." Sean's voice trailed off as he went back
in the house.
Brent stood there, debating his next move. " I think you should just get
out of here, and now would be a good time. "
I turned to face Brent, " Let me ask you a question Mr. Stein. How do you
intend to protect them? "
" Protect who? "
" Jack and Sean, they are still in danger and we both know that your track
record of being there for children is non existent. How do you intend to
keep anything from happening to them? I don't think you have any intentions
of being there for Sean, I think you just wanted your buddy back, giving no
thought to what his life now entails."
" Listen here freak, I may have just wanted Sean back to piss you off, but
he knows I will always be here for him. "
I started to reply to Brent when Kyle came around the side of the house
yelling. He ran for the porch as he continued his yelling. " Down, Jerry,
get down NOW! "
==========
I want to thank everyone for their emails and kind words of encouragement,
they have been very helpful over the last few months helping me to keep
this story going. We are getting close to an ending and I hope I can make
it a very memorable one that I will be able to maybe do a book 2 sometime
in the near future.
Please remember to give nifty a donate, this helps keep the site free and
open for everyone.
Thanks,
Bryan